Omar Sharif, Egyptian actor and screenwriter (d. 2015)

Omar Sharif, born Michael Yusef Dimitri Chalhoub on April 10, 1932, in Alexandria, Egypt, and passing away on July 10, 2015, was far more than just an actor; he was a global cinematic icon. This Egyptian-born talent, whose birth name was given an Egyptian Arabic pronunciation as [miˈʃel dɪˈmitɾi ʃælˈhuːb] and his stage name as [ˈʕomɑɾ eʃʃɪˈriːf], transcended cultural and linguistic barriers to become a household name worldwide. Widely regarded as his native country's greatest male film star, Sharif’s journey from the burgeoning film scene in Egypt to the grand stages of Hollywood and European cinema is a testament to his extraordinary talent and captivating screen presence.

From Cairo to Hollywood: A Star's Ascent

Sharif's illustrious career began in the vibrant Egyptian film industry of the 1950s. His early performances quickly established him as a romantic lead and a formidable dramatic actor within his homeland. However, it was his pivotal role in David Lean's monumental 1962 epic, Lawrence of Arabia, that truly catapulted him onto the international stage. As Sherif Ali, opposite Peter O'Toole's T.E. Lawrence, Sharif delivered a performance that was both commanding and nuanced, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. His dramatic entrance into the vast desert landscape remains one of cinema's most iconic moments, instantly cementing his status as a global star. This breakthrough role paved the way for a remarkable career that saw him grace productions from Britain, America, France, and Italy, making him a truly international figure.

An Icon of the Silver Screen: Diverse Roles and Enduring Legacy

Following his triumph in Lawrence of Arabia, Omar Sharif continued his collaboration with David Lean, taking on the challenging title role in the equally epic romantic drama, Doctor Zhivago (1965). His portrayal of the idealistic physician and poet navigating the tumultuous Russian Revolution earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama, further solidifying his reputation as a leading man capable of profound emotional depth. Sharif's versatility was evident in the myriad roles he embraced throughout his career, which spanned over 100 films across five decades. He effortlessly transitioned between romantic leads, as seen in beloved films like Funny Girl (1968), where he charmed audiences opposite Barbra Streisand, and The Tamarind Seed (1974), alongside Julie Andrews, to portraying significant historical figures such as the eponymous characters in Genghis Khan (1965) and Che! (1969). Even into his later years, Sharif's acting prowess remained undiminished, highlighted by his critically acclaimed performance as a Muslim Turkish immigrant in the French film Monsieur Ibrahim (2003). His final film appearance came in 2015, the same year he passed away, leaving behind a cinematic legacy marked by unforgettable characters and timeless performances.

Beyond the Camera: A Man of Many Talents and Passions

Omar Sharif was a man of considerable intellect and diverse interests, aspects that undoubtedly contributed to his cosmopolitan persona. He was remarkably multilingual, fluent in five languages: Arabic, English, French, Italian, and Spanish, a skill that naturally aided his seamless transition between international film productions. His global career, however, sometimes brought him into conflict with the political realities of his homeland. Frustrated by travel restrictions imposed by the government of Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser, which hindered his ability to accept international roles, Sharif made the difficult decision to live in self-exile in Europe, allowing him greater freedom to pursue his craft on the world stage.

Outside of acting, Sharif harbored a lifelong passion for horse racing, frequently attending prestigious events and even owning several racehorses. Perhaps even more remarkably, he was an exceptionally skilled contract bridge player, at one point ranking among the world's top players. His bridge prowess was not merely a hobby but a serious pursuit, leading him to author several books and newspaper columns on the game. Recognition for his contributions extended beyond the silver screen; he received high civil honors from multiple countries, including the distinguished Egyptian Order of Merit and the prestigious French Legion of Honour. Furthermore, he was one of only 25 individuals to be awarded UNESCO's Sergei Eisenstein Medal, a testament to his profound and lasting contributions to world cinema and cultural diversity. Omar Sharif's life was as rich and multifaceted as the characters he so brilliantly brought to life, solidifying his place as a true legend of the arts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What was Omar Sharif's birth name?

Omar Sharif was born Michael Yusef Dimitri Chalhoub.

Why did Omar Sharif change his name?

He adopted the stage name Omar Sharif as he began his acting career in Egypt, a common practice for actors establishing a professional identity in the film industry.

What are Omar Sharif's most famous films?

His most iconic roles include Sherif Ali in Lawrence of Arabia (1962) and the title role in Doctor Zhivago (1965). Other notable films include Funny Girl (1968) and Monsieur Ibrahim (2003).

How many languages did Omar Sharif speak?

Omar Sharif was fluent in five languages: Arabic, English, French, Italian, and Spanish.

Was Omar Sharif a bridge player?

Yes, he was an internationally renowned contract bridge player, at one point ranking among the world's best. He even authored books on the subject.

Did Omar Sharif receive any major awards for his acting?

Absolutely. He won three Golden Globe Awards, a César Award for Best Actor, and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Lawrence of Arabia.

Why did Omar Sharif live in self-exile?

He lived in self-exile in Europe due to travel restrictions imposed by the Egyptian government under President Gamal Abdel Nasser, which hampered his ability to pursue his international acting career.